De Hoop Terneuzen becomes second company in the Netherlands to receive carbon certificates

16 June 2022

Last year, projects in Braakman-Zuid and Koewacht resulted in 14.6 hectares of new forest being planted in partnership with Staatsbosbeheer, the Dutch Forestry Commission. The reduction in carbon emissions due to these two projects was officially validated on 16 May 2022 and included in the registry of certificates held by the Dutch National Carbon Market Foundation (Stichting Nationale Koolstofmarkt). We are proud that De Hoop Terneuzen is the second company in the Netherlands to be included in this registry for new afforestation. The new forest will capture carbon dioxide, and, by planting 14.5 hectares, De Hoop Terneuzen has been awarded a certificate to show that the reduction in emission of 1699 tonnes of carbon dioxide has been validated.

Corporate social responsibility

The greenhouse gas carbon dioxide is one of the main causes of climate change. To preserve the planet for future generations, carbon emissions must therefore be drastically reduced in the coming decades. In keeping with our vision of continuity as an independent family business for the very long term, we are endeavouring to develop our organisation sustainably. This implies accepting corporate social responsibility by leaving behind as small an ecological footprint as possible. Our partnership with the Dutch Forestry Commission is a direct result of this.

In the coming years, De Hoop Terneuzen will invest in an additional 100 hectares of forest in Zeeland. De Hoop Terneuzen is supporting afforestation investments in Zeeland due to its endeavours to develop sustainably with due care for the environment.

Mixed forest

New forest does more than help to limit climate change. It also helps to improve biodiversity in nature, the quality of the landscape, water buffering and the health of people and animals. Planting a large number of different species of trees and shrubs gives rise to mixed forests which are more resistant to climate change, longer periods of drought, diseases and storms. The Dutch Forestry Commission creates a mixed forest by planting familiar and regional species such as oak, beech, lime and sycamore, but also less well-known trees such as the field maple.

Dutch National Carbon Market Foundation

The Dutch National Carbon Market Foundation (Stichting Nationale Koolstofmarkt) (SNK) works actively to reduce carbon dioxide emissions within the Netherlands’ national boundaries. SNK issues certificates for projects in the Netherlands which reduce carbon emissions. These are projects for which there is no national policy and which might not otherwise take place. Certificate holders are parties who contribute voluntarily for various reasons, one of which is helping to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement. The certificate is proof of their contribution: it is assessed by independent experts and assures emission reduction. SNK, whose Board is supported by work groups and a Committee of Experts, has developed a procedure and methodology for issuing certificates. As such, SNK contributes to combatting the climate crisis and encourages innovative climate solutions.